7. Notice the distance from the knuckles on your hand to your elbow. This is the approximate distance you
should hold your reading material from your eyes.
8. When reading, tilt the book up about 20 degrees and look up at a distant object as you turn the page.
9. Take a one to two-minute break from reading or studying every 15 to 30 minutes. It will allow you to read
for longer periods of time.
When Traveling
1. Avoid reading or other near-point activities while riding in a car. Instead, look off into the distance and
relax your eyes.
2. Whenever possible, take a short vision break by removing your glasses when someone else is driving
the car you are in.
During Leisure Time
1. Remove your glasses or contact lenses whenever you don’t really need them. Experiment with this at
home when you eat or talk on the phone. This will give your eyes a chance to relax.
2. Do not sit any closer to the TV than 6 to 8 feet and sit upright.
3. When walking outdoors, view a distant object close to eye level. Look at it softly(while trying to notice
your background). Be aware of your surroundings.
4. Spend some time outdoors each day without your glasses or contact lenses, so that your eyes can
experience natural unfiltered light. Remember, put safety first.
5. Do something that you enjoy every day without wearing your glasses or contact lenses.
This will give your eyes a short visual break, allowing them to relax.
Additional Resources
For more information on preventative and remediative vision care, or to find a behavioral optometrist in
your area, contact:
• College of Optometrists in Vision Development at www.covd.org
• Optometric Extension Program at www.oepf.org
• College of Syntonic Optometry at www.syntonicphototherapy.com
EXERCISE YOUR EYES
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